Monday, January 06, 2014

UPDATE Dora B. Schriro, who was named today as the first woman to oversee the Connecticut State Police and other state public-safety functions, has a national profile as the New York City correction commissioner and a former special adviser to the U.S. secretary of homeland security.

Dora B. Schirro addresses a Hartford news conference today announcing her appointment as Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo

Schriro, 63, who has a law degree and a doctorate in education, is the only person to previously lead the correction systems of two states and two municipalities, twice as the first woman. As an adviser to Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, Schriro recommended sweeping reforms in the immigration detention system.

“The doctor is immensely qualified and has proven herself to be an exceptional leader across the country,” said Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, who introduced his nominee at a noon news conference at the State Capitol. Her appointment is subject to confirmation by the General Assembly.

An appointee of former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Schriro currently is the commissioner of correction for New York City, a post she has held in St. Louis and in the state prison systems of Missouri and Arizona.